Guy Ottewell, author of many books including 'The Astronomical Companion', compiles the annual "Astronomical Calendar" and Illustrates the cover. View his art and other projects at:
www.universalworkshop.com

"I believe in UFOs. They came here, saw how screwed up we are, and radioed back: "Don't even stop there for gas." >> Kathleen Madigan

Our Favorite Personal Aircraft

The world's smallest helicopter has four 10 HP 125cc engines and fixed pitch counter rotating blades. Conceived and developed by Mr. Gennai Yanagisawa, it is built in Nagano, Japan. Cleverly and elegantly designed; but the pilot must have large, and lightweight, cojones.

Our Favorite Film...

'The Passion of Joan of Arc' (1928) directed by Carl Dreyer, who wrote it using the original trial transcripts. The film examines her conviction by a misguided French Bishop. While silent, it is accompanied by a dramatic score written specifically for the film. Joan, played by Renee Falconetti, in harsh light and with no makeup, is spectacular. Some critics think this is the best film ever made. Available on Netflix.

Our Favorite Home

The Kaufmann House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, who sketched the design in a panic when he learned Mr. Kaufmann was coming to see how the plan was progressing. Of all Wright's masterpieces, this is arguably the most wonderful. The home is open to the public; the website 'fallingwater.org' is well done.

Our Favorite Website

www.gvozdariki.ru/gvzd/animation/flash/12-dream.htm .....Requires a high speed connection to download a charming animation by Russian artist Vladimir Gvozdev. Then visit the rest of the site. Amazing.

Our Favorite Sculpture

Presented to the US by the people of Russia, and dedicated on 9/11/06 by 'Pooty Poot,' the monument overlooks the World Trade Center site from Bayonne NJ where it is visible to all who enter the harbor. The central teardrop is cooled so moisture condenses on it and drips down like tears. The names of all who died on 9/11 are engraved around the base of the 100 ft high memorial.